What is anticipatory self-defense?
The principle of anticipatory self-defense is based on prevention. Instead of waiting for a dangerous situation to arise, it’s much better to try to anticipate what might happen and prepare for it than to find solutions when the situation is already occurring. That way, danger may be averted and a difficult situation defused.

To apply anticipatory self-defense, here are some things to remember:

Learn to assess the situation
An important first step to anticipatory self-defense is assessment of the situation and the environment. Why is the situation happening? Who are involved? What type of environment are you in? Is it possible to put a damper on the situation? If not, what would be the possible results – a confrontation, an argument, a physical fight? Are you capable of defending yourself? Are there self-defense weapons you could use? Do you have an escape route?

Avoid confrontation as much as possible
Anticipatory self-defense is not about acting out an immediate counter attack. It’s important to try to see if a confrontation can be avoided through physical evasion or verbal contact. If not, only then should physical self-defense techniques be used.

Find an escape route
Having an escape route may just be your best bet to run away and save your life. In case a threat escalates or you discover yourself at a huge disadvantage, you might put yourself and whoever it is you may be protecting in greater danger if you stay and fight. Look for a way to escape the situation or at least to minimize the threat, such as allowing your companion/s to escape while fighting off the attacker.

Once the attacker has been neutralized, an escape route will also come in handy in case you need to leave the scene immediately.

Neutralize the attack with efficiency
The key to anticipatory self-defense is to use force with efficiency. Using too much force might exhaust you of much-needed energy. Use sufficient force to neutralize an enemy but reserve some in case further attacks from other opponents come.

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